1983 Topps Uncut Production-Proof Sheet with Rare Tommy John Unissued Yankees Card

Sold For:

$2,340

Year:

1983

Auction:

2019 Summer

Lot #:

1611

Category:

Postwar Baseball - 1970s to Present Cards

Presented is a fascinating uncut production-proof sheet from the 1983 Topps baseball set. The production-proof sheet offered here is particularly noteworthy in that it features pitcher Tommy John with the New York Yankees in the bottom row of the sheet while the final-issue card depicts John with the California Angels. The New York Yankees version was never issued as John signed a contract with the California Angels during the 1982 offseason, and Topps was able to update his trading card prior to releasing the 1983 Topps set. It is also interesting to note that the unissued Yankees card (offered here), John is shown in a pitching pose; on the issued Angels card, he is shown from the chest up. This production-proof sheet features sixty-six cards arranged in six rows of eleven cards each. Measuring approximately 28-1/4 x 23 inches, the sheet displays color bars along the top edge and a blank reverse. The sheet presents as Near Mint, with brilliant colors and only a couple light creases visible upon close inspection (one common card is affected). This is only the second 1983 Topps proof of Tommy John that we have ever seen. (As a point of reference, the first one we sold, which was graded BVG NM-MT+ 8.5, realized $2,700.) This is a superb original uncut sheet, highlighted by the extremely significant unissued New York Yankees card of Tommy John, which would be a worthy addition to any collection of Topps relics, uncut sheets, or card-production items. The substantial size/weight of this item requires that there will be an additional shipping charge for this lot. Reserve $300. Estimate (open).